The Transport Department on Ambergris Caye has stepped up to address one of the many traffic issues affecting the island – speeding. For some time now, islanders have been complaining about vehicles and golf cart that speed at limit far beyond what has been assigned for the island. About three weeks ago, the Transport Department acquired a speed gun that will help with this issue.
The speed gun comes in time for the Easter Holiday and traffic wardens will be using the gun to measure the speed of all forms of vehicles, including motorcycles and golf carts. Because of the size of the island and width of the streets, speed limits should not exceed more than 15 miles per hour (mph). In fact the assigned speed limit for town core area is 10 mph and 15mph on the rest of the island. School areas in particular have a speed limit of 5 mph. These speed limits are made visible by signs across the island.
According to Chris Nuñez, Traffic Department Supervisor, speeding complaints were escalating. “Many residents were complaining about taxis driving far above the limit. At many times these taxis were causing traffic problems. Speeding, especially from large vehicles such as taxis can cause major accidents. That is what we are trying to avoid by using the speed gun,” said Nuñez.
Delinquent drivers will receive a $25 speeding ticket. If the problem of speeding continues for repeat offenders, the Traffic Department will file for criminal charges at the San Pedro Police Department. Motorists are reminded to drive with care and not to drive under the influence of alcohol.
The San Pedro Traffic Department has expressed the need for more than one speed gun. Anyone interested in donating an additional speed gun can visit the San Pedro Traffic Department during normal working hours or contact Chris Nuñez at phone number 610-2402.
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